Global green guidelines

In preparation for a discussion on international eco-labeling standards&#44 a coalition of 12 associations organized by the Grocery Manufacturers of America (GMA)&#44 is advocating standards similar to the &quot;Green Guides&quot; of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

The group Coalition for Truth in Environmental Marketing Information (CTEMI) opposes eco-seals marks conferred by groups indicating a product is environmentally friendly. Instead it wants the World Trade Organization (WTO)-which is expected to discuss eco-labeling in December-to allow scientifically based label claims that can be substantiated. "We're trying to find a generic way to push the FTC Green Guides into the international trade community" explain Eileen Seilor GMA's director environmental affairs. c